Hidden gifted is a term used for students who are unlikely to be identified as gifted. This may be for a number of reasons, some of which are suggested below.
The student may misbehave or rebel in class, because they are bored with school-work they find too simple. They may question activities and tasks the teacher provides, as they find no value in these. This misbehaviour can prevent a teacher from observing the students qualities of giftedness. This can be remedied by providing appropriate work that engages and challenges all students.
Some students become disengaged with school early on due to being provided with unsuitable and unchallenging work. These students may pay little or no attention in class, and therefore gain average or below-average grades in tests, while capable of potentially doing significantly better. A teacher can turn this around through personal attention to the student and their learning needs.
The student may be coasting through on their natural ability, and achieving only average grades. It is important to show these students what they can achieve with effort, and to provide different work rather than more work.
For students from some minority groups, particularly those with English as an additional language, some standard methods of identification may be unsuitable. Non-verbal tests, careful observations and nominations from parents or peers may be more suitable for these groups
The student may hide their giftedness due to experiencing peer pressure from other students. This may be particularly true in mathematics, which is a highly academic subject. This effects of this can be lessened by providing differentiation in an unobtrusive manner, and by cultivating a learning environment which celebrates success.
The student may be twice exceptional. This term refers to a person who is both gifted and possesses a disability. Self- and peer- nominations have been shown to be particularly useful for these students.
The student may possess a learning difficulty in one area, that masks their special abilities in another area. For example poor literacy may prevent mathematical talent from being observed. These students may respond well to a supportive learning environment.
Hidden gifted
Hidden gifted is a term used for students who are unlikely to be identified as gifted. This may be for a number of reasons, some of which are suggested below.
(Moltzen, Riley, & McAlpine, 2000)